Escape the ordinary with this vibrant Iced Vanilla Cherry Matcha Latte! Sweet, tangy cherries meet earthy matcha and creamy vanilla for a uniquely delicious and energizing drink. Your mornings at home just got better!

This post is sponsored by Northwest Cherries.

This vibrant and refreshing drink combines the earthy notes of matcha with the sweet tang of cherry and a hint of creamy vanilla. It’s a unique and invigorating twist on your regular iced latte. If you love this fruity fusion, you might also enjoy our recipes for No-Churn Cherry Garcia Ice Cream, Cherry and Lime Slushie, or a refreshing Cherry Limeade Recipe for another taste of summer.

Related: How to Freeze Cherries

What Is Matcha?

Matcha is a type of green tea made from finely ground powder of specially grown and processed green tea leaves. Unlike traditional tea where leaves are steeped and discarded, with matcha, you consume the entire leaf, resulting in a more potent source of antioxidants, caffeine, and L-theanine. This unique combination provides a sustained energy boost without the jitters and promotes focus.  

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen cherries?

Yes, frozen cherries work perfectly for the syrup.

Can I adjust the sweetness?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of sugar in the syrup to your liking.

Can I use vanilla extract instead of vanilla bean paste?

Yes, substitute with ½ teaspoon of vanilla extract, but vanilla bean paste provides a more intense flavor and those lovely black specks.

What milk alternatives can I use?

Almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, and coconut milk all work well in this latte. Choose your favorite!  

Do I need a special whisk for matcha?

A bamboo whisk (chasen) is ideal for achieving a smooth matcha consistency, but a small regular whisk can work in a pinch. Just ensure you whisk thoroughly to remove any clumps. 

Can I make this latte hot?

While this recipe is for an iced latte, you can adapt it for a hot version. Simply heat your milk, whisk the matcha with hot water, and combine with the warm cherry vanilla syrup.

Can I make the cherry syrup ahead of time?

Yes, the cherry vanilla syrup can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.  

What if I don’t have whole cherries?

You can use chopped cherries, but whole cherries release their flavor more gradually during the cooking process.

Substitutions/Variations

• Sweetener: Feel free to substitute the sugar with honey, maple syrup, agave, or a sugar-free alternative.
• Vanilla: If you don’t have vanilla bean paste or extract, you can omit it, but it adds a lovely aromatic note.

Benefits of Cherries

Beyond their delightful taste, cherries offer several health benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Cherries are packed with anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that can help fight inflammation and protect against cell damage.  
• May Improve Sleep: Some studies suggest that cherries contain melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.  
• Potential Exercise Recovery: The anti-inflammatory properties of cherries may aid in muscle recovery after exercise.  
• Good Source of Vitamins and Minerals: Cherries contain vitamins like vitamin C and minerals like potassium.  

Related: 7 Myth-Busting Facts of Cherries and Their Benefits

Ingredients Needed to Make Iced Vanilla Cherry Matcha Latte

For the Cherry Vanilla Syrup:

• ¼ cup organic cane sugar
• 6-7 whole cherries, pitted
• ¼ cup cherry juice
• 2 tbsp filtered water
• 2 tsp vanilla bean paste

For the Latte:

• ¾ cup plant milk of choice
• 2 tsp cherry vanilla syrup, or to taste
• 1.5 tsp matcha + ¼ cup hot water (175°F / 80°C)
• Ice

How to Make Cherry Matcha Latte

Make the Cherry Vanilla Syrup:

In a small pot, combine the cherry juice, organic cane sugar, water, and pitted whole cherries.

Cook down on low heat for about 3-5 minutes, until the cherries become tender and all the sugar has dissolved. Gently break up the cherry pieces with a spatula. Avoid letting the mixture bubble; remove from heat if needed.

Once combined, stir in the vanilla bean paste. Set aside to cool slightly.

Assemble the Iced Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte:

Prepare a glass with ice. Heat water to 175°F (80°C).

Sift the matcha powder into a small bowl. Add the hot water and whisk vigorously until smooth and no clumps remain.

To the iced glass, add the cherry vanilla syrup (strain for a smoother drink if desired).

Pour in your plant milk of choice.

Top off with the prepared matcha.

Stir gently and enjoy your refreshing Iced Cherry Vanilla Matcha Latte!

Enjoy this delightful Iced Vanilla Cherry Matcha Latte – a unique and refreshing twist on your everyday matcha!

Why We Love Northwest Cherries

We love educating parents in America on fresh fruits that you can simply rinse and eat. Northwest Cherries is no different. They’re passionate about sharing research-based information on the food you give to your family, one myth-busting fact at a time. Look for tart, sweet, and Rainer cherries in the produce aisle for your next go-to produce snack. 

Now that you know the real benefits of cherries, go grab ‘em, fresh or frozen, and try one of our favorite cherry recipes! 

Related: Cherries: How to Select, Store, and Serve

Year-round Cherry Recipes

• Homemade Cherry Preserves – great for spreads on toasts, meats and so much more
• Microwave Cherry Cobbler – a total classic served in a mug and ready in 2 minutes
• Cherry and Pork Skewers – a beautiful handheld appetizer with cherry rosemary sauce
• Homemade Cherry Limeade – cherries and lime, it’s summer in a glass
• Cherry Yogurt Bark – the perfect protein-packed snack